Library Updates

Library Staff Celebrate 10 Year and 30 Year Work Anniversaries

July 2018 will mark Louie Barcenes’ 30 year work anniversary at the UT Health Science Center. Currently the Supervisor of Circulation Services, Louie began working in the Briscoe Library as a Library Assistant I in 1988 and was promoted to Librarian Assistant III for Circulation, then for Public Services, where he provided reference services and library tours. Prior to coming to UT Health, he worked in the library at UTSA for a year.

When Louie began working at the library, there was no internet, however, there were terminals equipped with DOS as a replacement for the card catalog. At that time, there were also much more print materials on each floor as well as more copiers. Louie recalls that he had the tedious task of removing all of the coins from the copiers and rolling them into wrappers two or three days per week. He also recalls a time when there were no other HSC campuses besides the main (now Long) campus and no classrooms on the second floor of the library.

In his time working for UT Health, Louie has worked under three university presidents and four library directors. Some of his memorable moments include being chosen twice for “Lunch with the President” with former UT Health President John Howe as part of campus birthday celebrations. Other memories of Louie’s include the campus Fiesta de Texas events in the late 80’s and early 90’s when the library would sell cheesecake every year (and when alcohol could be sold on campus).

Louie says he has found working with many library staff throughout the years most rewarding about his career, stating, “I’ve met so many wonderful people.”

Dana Whitmire, Electronic Resources Librarian, celebrated 10 years at UT Health Science Center in November 2017. Prior to becoming a librarian, she had worked as a Library Assistant I and as a Library Assistant III at Briscoe Library. Dana came to the library at a time when print resources were steadily being replaced by electronic resources. “I love the constant change of technology,” she said.

Ten years ago, the library still did not have any classrooms on the second floor and was filled with computers for the HSC campus to use. Dana recalls that the top three floors of the library did still house many print resources at that time. Since then, she has been instrumental in managing and upgrading the current electronic resources collection. She also plays a major role in troubleshooting any issues that may arise with electronic resources.

Dana has greatly enjoyed working with other library colleagues and interacting with students in her various roles at Briscoe Library.

Please feel free to congratulate Louie and Dana on their noteworthy milestones.